The rich tradition of championship curling in Saskatchewan grows even stronger in 2012 with the return of the Tim Hortons Brier, March 3 – 11 in Saskatoon’s Credit Union Centre. Today, the Host Committee stepped up the excitement with the launch of full event ticket packages – including an innovative new option!

“Saskatoon set Brier attendance records in 1989 and 2000,” said Host Committee Chair Kerry Tarasoff. “The 2000 edition still stands as the second highest in the history of the event. With expanded seating in Credit Union Place – and the new ticket options – we’re looking forward to the best Brier ever in 2012!”

In addition to the “Old Classic” full event pass – for those who crave the excitement of all 22 draws – the 2012 Brier features three “Double Impact” packages that allow fans to double up on the draws that work best for their personal schedule:

The Opener – Two tickets to each of the first 11 draws for $369

The Champ – Two tickets to each of the final 11 draws for $419

The Weekender – Two tickets to each of the first 5 draws and last 6 draws for $419

The Old Classic – One ticket to all 22 draws for $389

With the introduction of virtual seat selection, for the first time ever, buyers can go online to seasonofchampions.ca and pick the seat that provides the best view of the action in the Credit Union Centre.

All four packages are on sale starting Monday, February 28 at 10:00 am. Purchases can be made by phone at 1-800-970-SEAT or 306-938-7800, online at seasonofchampions.ca or in person at the Credit Union Centre Box Office.

Another new feature for 2012 makes the Brier pass more rewarding than ever! Every full event ticket package includes the all new Season of Champions Rewards card – a $25 value. The card delivers a wide range of benefits, such as: savings on roadside assistance; free travel insurance; best prices on cars, hotels and airfare; pharmaceutical and drug discounts; plus, front of the line ticket opportunities for Season of Champions events!

Substantial benefits will be added to the rewards program on an ongoing basis, further enhancing its value to cardholders. Proceeds from the initiative will be invested in the growth and development of curling throughout Canada.

The full event pass also provides unlimited access to Keith’s Patch – the heartbeat of the party, all day every day. It’s where fans and competitors alike gather to enjoy an appetizing array of food and beverages, and dance to the sounds of some amazing Canadian bands. The Patch is also the home of Cool Curling – the tabletop version of the roaring game where fans play for the chance to win cash!

On top of all that, there are all kinds of opportunities to meet the athletes, starting with the exclusive Fan Appreciation Night, Friday, March 2 – a special meet and greet gathering with the Brier competitors.

Team Autograph sessions are held daily with members of all the teams taking part throughout the event. And, daily Up Close & Personal interviews feature candid discussions with players from past and present, offering a unique insight to the biggest names in the game.

“There are just so many advantages to the full event pass,” said Karasoff. “It’s definitely the best way to experience the 2012 Brier… our advice to fans is to select their seats soon!”